There are a lot of big decisions in life, among them finding a career and finding a partner—and Justina and Mark found both in the same place! Justina and Mark first met during their nursing careers, working in a cardiac intensive care unit. Their relationship began as purely professional, with them working alongside and learning from each other for years.
In May 2023, Mark knew his friendship with Justina had the potential to become something more. He asked her on a date, and what started as a 2-hour meetup for pickleball and boba tea turned into a full day of adventures. The dates continued from there, with the couple enjoying paddleboarding, trivia nights, live music, traveling, and more together. By the time Mark planned his proposal, he and Justina were not only fixtures in each other’s lives but also within their families.
Justina is a model (including for WedPlan!), and Mark worked with a photographer to pop the question while on a photoshoot. Justina said yes, and the moment was captured to look back on over a lifetime together.
Justina found her dream dress at Finery Bridal Chic. The dress, designed by Eddy K, was strapless, with a sweetheart neckline, intricate beading, and a figure-hugging fit and flare silhouette.
Melanie Rivers Hair and Makeup created a classically beautiful bridal look for Justina. Her hair was secured into a low bun, with loose face-framing pieces. Makeup was soft and elegant, with glowing skin, blush cheeks, and a mauve lip.
Sandy Xiong Beauty styled hair and makeup for the bridal party, which was a mix of curled, half-updos.
When they began the planning process, Justina and Mark tried to imagine themselves as guests. They wanted the closest friends and family to experience a beautiful day, while also letting their personalities shine in the theme, décor, and special moments.
They chose a color palette of white, light gray, and vintage mauve for their summer wedding, accented with green and yellow.
When it comes to planning, Justina and Mark agree: it goes by fast! They recommend couples start the process earlier, as it may take longer than you think for all the pieces to come into place. A coordinator, whether included in the venue rental or hired separately, is also an invaluable resource, if budget allows.
The couple wed in an outdoor rooftop ceremony at the J. Powers by Hilton Hotel, where their indoor reception was held as well. During the ceremony, Mark, Justina, and their parents placed letters in a box with a bottle of wine. The couple sealed the box to open on their first anniversary.
Justina and Mark wrote personal vows and heartfelt notes to each other, which they opened as they got ready for the day.
Quiet moments alone were a priority for Justina and Mark on their wedding day. They chose to do a first look, not just for the photos, but also to prioritize each other and fully take in the experience. They found various other times to step away, including one touching moment after the ceremony. Justina reflected,
“Right after the ceremony, Mark and I got a moment alone in the hallway together. We looked at each other in absolute joy and gave each other the biggest hug as we said ‘We’re married, we did it!’”
Mark and his groomsmen wore gray heathered suits from Men’s Warehouse with white undershirts, mauve ties, mauve pocket squares, and polished black dress shoes.
Hy-Vee used their diverse talents to provide both florals and cake for the wedding day. Justina’s bridal bouquet was an oversized arrangement composed of white and mauve roses, baby’s breath, and ample greenery, including eucalyptus leaves. Bridesmaids carried smaller, long-stemmed bouquets with blush roses, baby’s breath, and deep green grasses.
Bumble bees were a focal point at the reception. The couple gifted their guests with fresh honey, bee-themed mints, and small, handcrafted bees, which decorated the tables.
Instead of a bouquet toss, Justina honored her mom with a bouquet dedication. She took a few minutes to thank her mom for all of the love and support over the years.
The reception continued with dinner, desserts from Nothing Bundt Cakes, and entertainment from Ever After Entertainment. Alliance Event Design also helped pull everything together with rental and décor items.
Beyond the details, timelines, and planning decisions, some moments from a wedding day beautifully capture what marriage is truly about. Reflecting on her relationship, the bride shared a heartfelt sentiment about finding lasting love and the quiet ways it changes your life forever:
“When you truly find your partner in life, you will know – by the way they make you smile even when they aren’t there, by the way life is more beautiful after you met them, by the way they make your heart skip a beat even after you have been together for years.”
Danitza Photography preserved all the joy and emotion from the day, from the getting-ready photos to the dance floor.
Ready for more wedding inspiration? Dive into the WedPlan La Crosse Planning Guide for vendor recommendations, planning tips, and stunning local weddings. View the digital version on our website or stop by participating vendors to grab your FREE copy.
